Uncle Lim’s Kitchen has taken over the former China Garden 3905 Independence Blvd.

Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, woks are sizzling with the unique flavors of Malaysia, Thailand and other Southeast Asian culinary hot spots as Uncle Lim’s Kitchen takes over the former China Garden at 3905 Independence Blvd.

Fans of the global palate formerly served at the now-exclusively Chinese destination Double Happiness might recognize a few faces in the kitchen. Proprietor Hooseng Lim once manned the kitchens there under founding owner Ellen Mansfield, and is running the new venture with his family. Hooseng’s son Weyang Lim sat down for a few minutes to walk through the operation, which is still in a transitional phase following the deal’s close a few weeks ago.

Papaya Chicken, click for menu

Uncle Lim’s will continue to serve the point-and-pick staples depicted in photos above the front counter of the snug 20-seat eatery, although Weyang promises a lighter, less greasy touch with the mostly old hat favorites like General Tso’s Chicken and Moo Shu Pork that populate the existing menu. Dishes like Thai Phanaeng Curry, Mango Chicken and Malaysian Mee Goreng comprise an additional two dozen options, well-guarded recipes the elder Lim served on the original Double Happiness menu. Nearly everything can be ordered in a vegetarian-friendly manner using a soy-based protein.

While prices reflect the restaurant’s quick-service nature, nothing rings up over $12, Weyang said they are prepared to the same standards diners could expect in a cozy, sit-down, date-night destination. And for at least the first three months of business, the Lim family, Malaysian emigres who settled in Wilmington six years ago, plans to sell those plates at a buy one, get one half-off rate while they build buzz for the new spot.

Uncle Lim’s Kitchen will serve from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, closing later at 10:30 on Friday and Saturday. Orders can be placed from noon-9:30 Sundays. Expect a Facebook page and website to launch in the coming weeks with more details.

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